“For the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart”. 1 Sam 16:7
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, I am delighted to share with you my vocational story and experience as a Claretian religious brother. At first of all, I thank the Almighty for the gift of life and vocation in this Missionary Congregation. God called me to this Congregation in a mysterious way. I was not a church-going person or an interested religious. I was on my way working, studying and taking care of my family. My mother struggled a lot to educate and raise us because of my family’s economic situation. In short, I went through all kinds of crises and bitter moments since my childhood. Now what was bitter in the past has turned into blessings in the present. Thanks to God.
Although I had a desire to become a priest, I never thought of becoming a Claretian or joining the Claretians. With many struggles and confusions, I entered the Congregation. There were a quiet number of times I wanted to leave the seminary because of some perennial family problems. But God did not allow it. He had a hidden plan for me. During my formation period, especially during the novitiate, I felt a call: “The desire to become a Permanent Religious Brother”. Knowing the fact that Religious Brothers are not recognised or appreciated by the people in Asia, I gradually became convinced of my calling to be a Permanent Religious Brother. Although at times I had doubts and confusions regarding my decision, God directed me according to His mysterious plan through various people and events. I finally became a full member of the Congregation when I professed my final commitment wholeheartedly.
My life as a religious missionary brother is joyful and exciting. Many people rejoice in my vocation and encourage me, although some discourage me by pointing out ministries that only priests can do. But I, as a religious brother, have never been concerned about what is beyond my vocation. I only do what I can and am assigned to do, what brings me happiness and satisfaction. At the same time, I try to learn many other things so that my ministry is timely, effective and efficient. There are many ministries that a permanent brother can do. But the one thing he must know is that he must be convinced of the beauty of this vocation. For me, the beauty of this vocation is to be a witness of Jesus not by preaching, but by life: a living witness of the love of Jesus.
In conclusion, I would like to say that it is not I but God who called me to this way of life. I simply gave my life to be guided by his life and his love.
Jaffna (Sri Lanka)
January 2025
